Growing

In Luke 2:22-52, Jesus is dedicated at the Temple and grows up physically. As He grows, there is a growing awareness that something unique is appearing in Jesus.

SERMON OUTLINE

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” (Luke 2:52)

Jesus Growing (Luke 2:16, 40, 43, 52)

Growing Light (Luke 2:25-32, 36-40)

Growing Clouds (Luke 2:33-35)

Growing Revelation (Luke 2:41-49)

Growing Confusion (Luke 2:33, 50)

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Answer one of the following questions:
   1. What is one of your favorite memories from growing up? Why?
   2. When have you experienced the greatest growth in your life with God? What happened?
2. This week we conclude our “Beginnings” series from the Gospel of Luke by looking at Luke 2:22-52. Luke moves from Jesus’ birth to his early life with one episode from his first months and one from his boyhood. Take a moment to pray that God would speak to you before reading the first episode from Luke 2:22-40.
3. Joseph and Mary are fulfilling the requirements of the Jewish law for purification after birth (Leviticus 12:2-4) and dedication of firstborn children (Numbers 18:15-16) at the Temple in Jerusalem. What do you notice about Simeon, a man they encounter there (vss 25-26)?
4. What is most striking to you about Simeon’s words of praise to God (vss 29-32) and his words to Joseph and Mary (vss 33-35)? What does this tell us about Jesus?
5. What would you say Anna the prophetess confirms about Jesus’ identity in her response to Jesus’ visit (vss 36-38)?
6. Now read Luke 2:41-52. Background: Joseph and Mary appear as very devout in their annual visit to Jerusalem for Passover. They likely travel the 80 miles from Nazareth to Jerusalem in a group with family and friends.
7. When Joseph and Mary discover Jesus is not with their group, they rush back to Jerusalem to find Him in the Temple talking with teachers. His response in verse 49 is Jesus’ first words in the Gospel. What do we learn about Him from these words?
8. Jesus’ growth physically is mirrored by His growth relationally and spiritually (see 2:40, 52). What might we learn about our own development as disciples from Jesus’ life here?
9. What is one specific thing that God is speaking to you through this study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another. If you are studying on your own, write it down.